JAGOI BABANG, Indonesia: Despite being separated by an international boundary, the Bidayuh of Jagoi Babang in Indonesia and Jagoi Bau in Sarawak continue to preserve strong ancestral ties through shared culture, traditions and the annual Gawai celebration.
Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the annual Gawia Sowa celebration in Jagoi Babang serves as an important platform to strengthen the longstanding relationship between communities on both sides of the border.
He said this year’s celebration marked the 186th edition of Gawia Sowa in Jagoi Babang.
“Although we are divided by the border between Malaysia and Indonesia, the people of Jagoi Babang and Jagoi Bau share the same ancestry, language, culture and way of life.
“Many families have relatives on both sides of the border. That is why every time they celebrate Gawai, they invite us from this side, and likewise, we maintain close ties with them,” he said after attending the event on Wednesday.
Henry, who is also Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Maritime), said he was honoured to receive an invitation to attend the celebration as a representative from Sarawak and Malaysia.
He also said the occasion reflects the enduring connection between communities that have remained united despite geographical and political boundaries.
“Gawai is always about family, unity and togetherness. Events like this provide an opportunity for us to strengthen our bonds and preserve our shared heritage,” he said.
Henry also expressed appreciation to Pos Lintas Batas Negara (PLBN) head Misdor Jerry Purba and her team for facilitating the visit and assisting the delegation’s entry into Indonesia.
“Their assistance made it possible for us to travel in a large group using our own transportation, which greatly eased the journey,” he said.
Henry added that such cultural exchanges play an important role in maintaining harmony and fostering closer people-to-people relations between communities living along the Malaysia-Indonesia border.
